CHESTER, PA — On the weekend of March 15, Chester Water Authority (CWA) will host Pennsylvania Canine Search and Rescue (PACSAR) for a large-scale training exercise at the Octoraro Reservoir and surrounding wilderness. The training will take place in Lower Oxford Township, Chester County, and Colerain and Little Britain Townships, Lancaster County.
As a public water utility, CWA is deeply committed to the well-being of the communities it serves. Providing space for first responders and emergency personnel to conduct life-saving training is an essential part of that ongoing commitment.
“This collaboration extends beyond our commitment to supplying high quality, reliable and affordable water to our ratepayers—we are a critical member of a regional community,” said Noel Brandon, CWA Board Chairman. “By opening our property for emergency training, we are helping to ensure that search and rescue teams have the experience and preparation they need when real emergencies happen.”
The training will bring together K9 search teams, drones (UAV), utility task vehicles (UTV), boats, emergency medical services (EMS and QRS), and ground support teams. Signage will be posted to inform the public that a search simulation is taking place.
“Having access to different training environments is critical for our teams,” said Christopher Brosey, Drone Captain for PACSAR. “CWA’s support allows us to refine our search techniques, improve coordination, and be ready when called to find a missing person.”
PACSAR is a volunteer-based organization that provides search and rescue support across Pennsylvania and beyond. The team operates under the guidelines of the Pennsylvania Search and Rescue Council (PSARC) and the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR). When requested, PACSAR also assists FEMA with search efforts in surrounding states.
Through partnerships like this, CWA continues its long-standing dedication to public safety, emergency preparedness, environmental stewardship, and community service. By providing a location for critical training exercises, CWA is ensuring that rescue teams are ready to respond when every second counts.
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